Fran P. Mainella

Visiting Scholar, 16th Director of the National Park ServiceCo-Chair of the US Play CoalitionEmail: fmainel@clemson.eduTel: 864-656-2566Location: 262A Lehotsky Hall

Education:B.S. University of Connecticut (B.S. Cum Laude); Institute for Organization Management conducted by the United States Chamber of Commerce at the University of DelawareM.S. Central Connecticut State College (Cum Laude)Ph.D Central Connecticut State College, Honorary Doctor of Public Service

Specialty Area:

Natural and cultural resources

Partnerships and volunteerism

Ecotourism

Park and Recreation -- its meaning and importance to today's society including health and access

Additional Professional Responsibilities:

Co-Chair, US Play Coalition

Chair of the Pugsley Award Committee, Fellow for the American Academy of Park and Recreation Administrators

Treasurer and Member, Board of Directors Children and Nature Network

Chair, Public Lands Advisory Committee to the National Environmental Education Foundation

Former President, National Association of State Park Directors

Former President, National Recreation and Park Association

Member, “Will to Lead” Fundraising Committee for Clemson University

Member, National Recreation and Park Foundation

Member, Newsweek Magazine’s Environmental Advisory Board

Member, National Park Trust Board of Directors

Research Interests:

Research focuses on the Value of Play and reconnection to nature in the lives of children and adults. I also research and present on National and State Park issues such as invasive species, fire, visitation, maintenance, lighting, and operations.

Since becoming a Visiting Scholar at Clemson University in 2006, I have had the opportunity to speak at hundreds of conferences and events on the Power of Play and Reconnection to the Outdoors. Below is a listing of six recent engagements: